Charles Skip Cramer

Communities could not function if we relied only on the government and private sector for services. The non-profit sector is mission-driven, and a unique force for advancing the common good.

-Charles Skip Cramer

The common thread running through Charles “Skip” Cramer's life is service to others. Born during World War II, his father ran Navy convoys in the north Atlantic, and Skip followed in his footsteps, attending the Naval Academy, followed by his own Navy career.

His time in the Navy took him far and wide--from Hawaii to Japan, Nova Scotia, Washington D.C., and France. He ultimately landed in the Jacksonville, FL where he took command of one of the largest Navy air bases in the country. Skip also became ingrained in the Jacksonville community, serving on nonprofit boards and volunteering for the Red Cross, USO, Salvation Army, and Rotary Club, among others. Upon retiring from the Navy, Skip went to work as the CEO of the American Red Cross of Northeast Florida.

“Nonprofit volunteering was an easy transition from the military,” said Skip. “It continued the idea of serving the American people, serving the community and improving the quality of life for people.” Skip later served as Executive Director for the Jacksonville Community Council, a community advocacy and action group. After retiring, Skip started volunteering for both organizations.

As a volunteer leader, Skip furthers the Red Cross' mission to alleviate human suffering and provide comfort and care to members of the Armed Forces and their families. During his nearly 4,300 hours of Red Cross volunteer service, Skip has mentored countless local volunteers, who in turn become the next generation of Red Cross volunteer leaders and staff. Earlier in 2015, Skip was recognized by the Red Cross with the President's Award for Excellence in Humanitarian Service.

“America is unique in the amount of volunteerism that occurs,” said Skip. “It is part of our culture. Communities could not function if we relied only on the government and private sector for services. The non-profit sector is mission-driven, and a unique force for advancing the common good. Nonprofits, by their very nature, build and nurture communities.”

Skip also does pro-bono work, aiding non-profits with their governance structure. He also loves to travel with his wife Glenda, who will be joining him on the cruise!

Skip Cramer

"Communities could not function if we relied only on the government and private sector for services. The non-profit sector is mission-driven, and a unique force for advancing the common good."